Hospice handed Chelsea Flower Show garden

A hospice has been chosen to receive a garden from the Chelsea Flower Show.

Hospice UK and designer Tom Hoblyn will gift a garden to be made for the 2025 event to St Cuthbert's Hospice in Durham to highlight the "important role" played by such spaces in end of life care.

The Mediterranean-inspired design will be relocated to Durham following the show.

Jeff McWaters, a St Cuthbert's resident with Huntington's Disease, said the news was "fantastic" as being in the garden helps take his "mind off things".

While the initial inspiration for the creation comes from Mallorca, Mr Hoblyn has researched the Durham region and will incorporate design elements inspired by the River Wear and Cuthbert's Moor in the North Pennines.

Durham's climate has also been considered when choosing the materials and plants.

John Eggleston, a volunteer gardener at the facility, said he knows it is "going to mean so much to people here".

Mr Eggleston, who has been at St Cuthbert's for the past 13 years, said: "We're all absolutely over the moon and it's going to be a real pleasure to help maintain this special garden."

The space will be accessible to both wheelchairs and hospice beds.

My Hoblyn said: "What is beautiful is also hugely beneficial for a patient's mind, body and spirit, and of course for their family and friends as they tackle life's most difficult journey."

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